What is PFA?

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a promising practice for disaster behavioral health response. PFA was developed by the National Center for PTSD and the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, as well as other individuals involved in coordinating and participating in disaster response and recovery.

PFA intervention strategies are intended for use with children, adolescents, parents and caretakers, families, and adults who are survivors or witnesses exposed to disaster or terrorism. PFA can also be provided to first responders and other disaster relief workers.

PFA is a supportive intervention for use in the immediate aftermath of disasters and terrorism. The delivery of PFA is defined in terms of days or weeks after a disaster (timing will depend on the circumstances of the post-disaster setting). PFA is often delivered in temporary settings where professional follow-up may not be possible.